1991 Ford Taurus vs. 2009 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 3,454 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1991 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 340 kg more than 1991 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Lexus IS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Ford Taurus, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Lexus IS (376 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Taurus | 2009 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Taurus | IS |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2512 cc | 3454 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 376 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2740 mm |
